The party grouped around the blazing light
Which from the fireplace streamed into the night,
And in its glow, so comfortable and warm,
Recounted the disasters of the storm.
Like some informal gathering, at first
All spoke at once, as with a common burst;
Then as the intermittent tempest wailed,
The talk subsided and a calm prevailed.
All watched the pitch ooze from the knots and burn,
Or smoked their pipes in silent unconcern.